By Martin Bakole is setting his sights on a high-profile clash against Zhilei Zhang in China, aiming to solidify his position among the heavyweight elite after a stunning victory over Jared Anderson. The pursuit of this bout underscores Bakole’s ambition to secure a world heavyweight title opportunity.
Bakole, currently boasting a professional record of 21-1, recently made waves in the boxing world by halting Jared Anderson’s momentum with a decisive fifth-round stoppage in Los Angeles. This victory has elevated Bakole’s status, positioning him as the No. 1 contender in the WBA rankings and third in the WBC pecking order.
Expressing his eagerness, Bakole stated to Sky Sports, “I would love to fight big Zhang in December in China. I heard His Excellency wanted to make the fight in China so that’s the fight I’m looking for. If that happens I’ll be so happy. I’m ready to fight big Zhang in China before his fans. I always fight outside, I went to America and stopped Anderson, I went to Paris and beat Tony Yoka so I would love to go to China and beat Zhang in front of his fans, that’s a fight I’d love and I’m looking forward to it.”
Promoter Ben Shalom of BOXXER echoed Bakole’s enthusiasm, highlighting the potential impact of such a matchup. “Martin Bakole is hungry, and he’s ready to make his mark on the world stage,” Shalom remarked. “A clash with Zhilei Zhang is exactly the kind of blockbuster fight that boxing fans deserve—two heavyweight titans going toe-to-toe. This is a fight that could shake the division to its core, and we’re here to make it happen. The world wants to see it, and so do we. Let’s give the fans what they want!”
Bakole’s trainer, Billy Nelson, has full confidence in his fighter’s ability to overcome Zhang. “It would be a great challenge for Martin fighting in China against Zhang, one we’d relish,” Nelson commented. “There would be millions of eyes on it. I would be very confident Martin would stop Zhang probably before the eighth. I think he’s too fast and too sharp, his engine is far superior to Zhang’s. We know Zhang is dangerous early doors with his left hand, but it would be a challenge we’d be up for and very confident of winning.”
Zhilei Zhang, with a record of 27-2-1, has established himself as a formidable contender in the heavyweight division. Despite his losses to Filip Hrgovic and Joseph Parker, Zhang remains a respected and dangerous opponent, known for his powerful left hand and technical skills.
The proposed fight in China would not only be a significant milestone for Bakole but also a highly anticipated event for boxing enthusiasts worldwide. As Bakole continues to climb the ranks, a bout against Zhang could serve as a pivotal moment in his quest for a world title.
With the heavyweight division brimming with talent and potential matchups, the boxing community eagerly awaits confirmation of Bakole and Zhang facing off, anticipating a thrilling encounter that could reshape the landscape of heavyweight boxing.
